Before You Start House Hunting, Do This First

Scrolling real estate listings is exciting.

Open houses feel productive.

Saving homes on Zillow or Redfin makes it feel like you’re moving forward.

But before you start seriously house hunting, do this:

Get financially clear.

Know Your True Budget — Not Just Your Approval

A mortgage pre-approval might tell you that you qualify for $550,000.

That does not mean you should spend $550,000.

There is a major difference between:

• Maximum approval
• Comfortable monthly payment

A smart home buyer considers:

• Mortgage payment
• Property taxes
• Homeowners insurance
• HOA fees (if applicable)
• Maintenance reserves
• Utilities

Your housing payment should allow you to still:

• Save monthly
• Travel occasionally
• Handle unexpected expenses
• Invest for retirement

Approval amount is a ceiling.
Comfort is the goal.

Build a Financial Cushion

Unexpected costs happen during the home buying process:

• Inspection issues
• Appraisal gaps
• Moving expenses
• Initial repairs
• Furniture and setup costs

Going into homeownership with zero reserves creates unnecessary stress.

A financial cushion creates confidence.

Define Your Non-Negotiables

Before touring homes, clarify:

• Location
• Commute time
• School zones
• Property type
• Minimum bedrooms/bathrooms

When you define your must-haves early, you reduce emotional decision-making later.

Buying a home is both financial and emotional.

Preparation keeps emotion from overpowering logic.

And in today’s competitive real estate market, clarity gives you an advantage.

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